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Why Should I Spay or Neuter My Dog?

There are numerous reasons you should spay or neuter your dog! Let’s talk about health reasons first…

Female dogs that are spayed CAN’T get uterine cancers, their risk of mammary (breast) cancer is reduced by 25% and they are less prone to urinary tract infections.1 As early as 6 months of age, female dogs begin a biannual “heat” cycle during which they attract every unneutered male dog within 20 miles. She can also have hormonal or personality changes and leak bloody vaginal discharge throughout your house. And no, it’s not true; your dog won’t get fat because you spay her.

Male dogs that are neutered CAN’T get testicular cancer and they live 40% longer than their unneutered counterparts. Unneutered male dogs respond to the “call of the wild” and their desire to wander is fierce. In fact, 62% of dogs hit by a car are unneutered! Finally, 66% of unneutered males get prostate disease.1

Aside from the important medical reasons for spaying or neutering you are doing the right thing for the serious overpopulation problem in the United States. Over 12 million unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized each year and even more are abandoned.1

1. Data on file at IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Westbrook, Maine USA.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

The opinions and views expressed in this post are those of the author's and do not necessarily represent the beliefs, policies or positions of PetHealthNetwork.com, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. or its affiliates and partner companies.